This Italian Grinder Pasta Salad captures the bold flavors of a classic Italian grinder sandwich in a refreshing, no-bun format. Combining rotini pasta with marinated mozzarella, deli meats, pickled red onions, and a zesty dressing, it's a hearty dish perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a satisfying lunch. The creamy dressing, enriched with the oil from marinated mozzarella balls, ties all the ingredients together, creating a delightful medley of textures and tastes. Whether served as a main course or a side, this pasta salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. 

Ingredients:

For the Dressing:

• 1⅓ cups mayonnaise

• ⅓ cup red wine vinegar

• 1 tablespoon peperoncini pepper juice

• Marinade oil from 2 (8 oz) containers of marinated mozzarella balls

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Salad:

• 1 lb rotini pasta, cooked al dente

• 2 (8 oz) containers marinated mozzarella balls, quartered

• 5–6 peperoncini peppers, sliced into rings

• 10 oz cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 cup pickled red onions

• 10 slices deli Genoa salami, cut into chunks

• 8 slices deli ham, cut into chunks

• 20 slices pepperoni, quartered

• ½ head lettuce, shredded

Directions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, peperoncini pepper juice, mozzarella ball marinade oil, black pepper, salt, oregano, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes until smooth. Set aside.

2. In a large bowl, combine cooked rotini pasta, quartered mozzarella balls, sliced peperoncini peppers, halved cherry tomatoes, pickled red onions, salami, ham, and pepperoni.

3. Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss to combine, ensuring all components are well-coated.

4. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.

5. Just before serving, gently stir in shredded lettuce. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 1214 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 63 g

• Protein: 52 g

• Fat: 85 g

• Sodium: 1716 mg

• Fiber: 4 g

• Sugar: 5 g